M. Chapoutier Hermitage Chante Alouette 2021

M. Chapoutier Hermitage Chante Alouette 2021

 

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M. Chapoutier
Hermitage Chante Alouette 2021
  • Vintage : 2021
  • Country : France
  • Region : Northern Rhône
  • Subregion : Hermitage
  • Type : White
  • Style : Creamy Full Bodied White
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 13°
  • Grappes : 100% Marsanne

M. Chapoutier Hermitage Chante-Alouette is a remarkable white wine, showcasing the finesse and complexity of Marsanne from one of the Rhône Valley’s most iconic appellations.

Experts Score Vintage
RP Robert Parker 92 2021
JD Jeb Dunnuck 96 2020
JS James Suckling 95 2020
WS Wine Spectator 95 2020
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

The grapes for Chante-Alouette are sourced from three distinct vineyards within the Hermitage appellation, each contributing unique characteristics:

  • Le Méal: Known for its ancient fluvio-glacial alluvial soils and abundant pebbles, this site provides structure and minerality.
  • Les Murets: Featuring clay-gravel soils enriched with red clays, it imparts richness and generosity to the wine.
  • Chante-Alouette: A high-altitude site with a mix of loess and finely decomposed granite, contributing freshness, salinity, and acidity.

These parcels are located primarily in the Ermite lieu-dit on high plateaus and slopes with optimal sun exposure, essential for fully ripening Marsanne.

Winemaking

The Marsanne grapes are hand-harvested at optimal maturity to ensure the highest quality. After a gentle and long pressing, the must is lightly settled before fermentation. Fermentation takes place partly in stainless steel tanks and partly in demi-muids (600-liter barrels), ensuring a balance of freshness and complexity.

During the first 2-3 months, the lees are stirred regularly (bâtonnage), adding texture and depth to the wine. The wine is aged for 8 months, with 40–30% in stainless steel to retain vibrancy and 60–70% in demi-muids, of which 10% are new oak and the remainder are one- to three-year-old barrels. This meticulous ageing process integrates flavors and enhances the wine’s structure.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Bright green-gold with brilliant clarity.
  • Aroma: A complex and subtle bouquet featuring quince, walnut, honey, ginger, and acacia, with a delicate hint of linden blossom.
  • Palate: Smooth and elegant, with a bright, refreshing attack and a creamy mid-palate. The finish is long and refined, leaving a lingering taste of almond.

Did you know?

The name Chante-Alouette refers to the historical use of a small shelter at the summit of the vineyard for hunters of larks (“alouettes” in French). This unique location also aligns with Hartmann lines, areas believed to have magnetic properties, adding to the vineyard's mystique.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Foie Gras with Fig Chutney: The wine’s rich texture and nutty aromas balance the richness and sweetness of foie gras.
  • Lobster Thermidor: The creamy palate complements the decadent flavors of lobster in a buttery, herbed sauce.
  • Poulet aux Morilles (Chicken with Morels): The wine’s complexity mirrors the earthy and creamy flavors of this classic dish.
  • Goat Cheese with Honey and Thyme: The wine’s floral notes pair beautifully with the tangy and sweet elements of this pairing.

History of M. Chapoutier

The history of M. Chapoutier began in 1808, when it was founded as a modest family estate focused on Rhône Valley wines. It grew steadily in prominence, but the turning point came in 1990 with the arrival of Michel Chapoutier, whose bold vision and innovative spirit transformed the estate into an internationally acclaimed name in winemaking.

Michel, renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, implemented biodynamic farming practices as early as 1991, making Chapoutier a pioneer in sustainable viticulture. His philosophy emphasized allowing the vines to express their natural characteristics, using organic and biodynamic principles to enhance soil vitality and promote biodiversity.

In addition to championing terroir-focused winemaking, Michel prioritized inclusivity. In 1996, M. Chapoutier became the first French winery to use Braille on its labels, a groundbreaking initiative inspired by Michel’s close friendship with a blind oenologist. This gesture reflected the estate’s commitment to making fine wine accessible to all.

Under Michel’s leadership, the estate has expanded its influence beyond the Rhône Valley, acquiring vineyards in Roussillon, Alsace, Australia, and Spain. Each new project honors Chapoutier’s philosophy of showcasing the authentic identity of each terroir. Michel also introduced the concept of Sélections Parcellaires, single-vineyard wines that epitomize the unique characteristics of the plots from which they are sourced.

Today, M. Chapoutier stands as a symbol of tradition and innovation, with a legacy built on respect for nature, a passion for terroir, and a commitment to crafting wines that resonate with authenticity and elegance.

Region and Vineyards

M. Chapoutier’s origins and heart remain in the Rhône Valley, home to some of France’s most iconic appellations:

  • Hermitage: Known for its legendary terroirs such as Le Méal, L’Ermite, and Le Pavillon, producing wines of unmatched depth and elegance.
  • Côte-Rôtie: A region of steep slopes and schist soils, yielding aromatic and structured Syrah.
  • Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Famous for its diverse soils, including galets roulés, and complex blends of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre.
  • Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph: Offering fresh and versatile wines that highlight the Rhône’s diversity.

The estate encompasses 1,242 hectares, with 427 hectares certified biodynamic, ensuring sustainable viticulture and authentic expressions of the land. Beyond the Rhône, Chapoutier has extended its vision to regions such as Bila-Haut in Roussillon, Schieferkopf in Alsace, and the Pyrenees in Australia.

Wine Range of M. Chapoutier

M. Chapoutier’s portfolio is diverse and comprehensive, ranging from everyday wines to ultra-premium expressions:

  • Sélections Parcellaires: The pinnacle of Chapoutier’s production, these ultra-premium wines like Le Pavillon (Hermitage) and L’Ermite (Hermitage) are made in small quantities from the estate’s best plots.
  • Prestige Wines: Iconic appellation wines from regions like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côte-Rôtie, and Saint-Joseph, showcasing Rhône Valley tradition.
  • Tradition Range: Approachable yet expressive wines, including organic labels, that reflect the diversity of the Rhône.
  • International Projects: Wines from Roussillon, Alsace, Portugal, Australia, and Spain, highlighting Chapoutier’s expertise across the globe.
  • Specialty Wines and Spirits: Including dessert wines like Banyuls and an artisanal gin, expanding Chapoutier’s portfolio beyond traditional offerings.

Did you know?

In 1996, M. Chapoutier became the first French winery to include Braille on its labels, ensuring accessibility for visually impaired wine lovers and setting a precedent for inclusivity in the wine industry.

Robert Parker (RP) : 92 Points (2021)
From a vintage that has proved very successful for the region's white wines, Chapoutier's 2021 Hermitage Chante-Alouette features aromas of beeswax, almond skin, melon and tangerine. It's medium-bodied, round, concentrated, nicely balanced and harmonious, with a long, citrusy finish.

Jeb Dunnuck (JD) : 96 Points (2020)
Brilliant all the way, the 2020 Hermitage Chante-Alouette Blanc is a white readers should snatch up. All Marsanne from a mix of both granitic sites and more loess sites, brought up a mix of demi-muids and tank, it has a gorgeous perfume of honeyed peach, quince, crushed stone, and toast. With bright acidity, medium to full body, beautiful mid-palate depth, and a great finish, it will benefit from just a few years of bottle age and keep for 15+ years or more. It’s a quintessential Hermitage Blanc.

James Suckling (JS) : 95 Points (2020)
Impressive nose of mirabelle and ripe peaches with hints of toast, honeycomb and flint. Great concentration without any more weight than a very good Grand Cru white Burgundy. Stunning interplay of fine tannins and mineral acidity.

Wine Spectator (WS) : 95 Points (2020)
Shows impressive concentration, with a layer of melon, quince and heather supported by a foundation of wet stone. Lightly honeyed and well-defined, the palate shows beautiful integration and drive. Reveals echoing notes of dried verbena, white tea tannins and salted, buttery brioche on the lingering finish.

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